I / Camera (2011) video stills
I / Camera (2011) looks at the object behind the digital image - in this case, the first video camera the artist owned. Cameras bring about mixed feelings and responses, from pleasure in performing, to shyness, even a sense of violation or invasiveness. The language we use around cameras is also charged. Sayings like “caught on camera”, or “captured”, and “shooting a film” or the idea of being produced by the image, are common. We say “having our photograph taken” instead of “offering my photograph”, or gifting or participating in.
I / Camera turns the camera on itself, and dismantles it, pushing the digital image to physical breaking point. The camera frames both Stephanies’ image and its own. Initially, both are defined by its physical attributes: the lens quality and pixel resolution of a standard definition digital video camera circa 2001. Stephanies’ gestures progressively expose the structure behind the image. Eventually, as wires and electrical connections are cut, the camera fails to sustain a picture.
Video available by request.